Bolivia President Rodrigo Paz says dialogue reduces road blockades

More than 44 days of nationwide road blockades have disrupted Bolivia, with the Administradora Boliviana de Carreteras reporting up to 78 cut points across five departments. Dialogue with protest groups has led to the lifting of blockades in Chuquisaca and Potosí, while blockades have intensified in areas such as Cochabamba and La Paz, where supporters of former President Evo Morales have reinforced protests. President Rodrigo Paz thanked the regions that reopened routes, stating that "through dialogue the points of blockage disappear," and called for continued negotiations. The Central Obrera Boliviana (COB) scheduled an assembly of departmental union leaders to assess the conflict.

The disruptions have caused severe supply shortages, hampered transport of passengers, fuel and food, and resulted in at least 16 deaths – 13 of them unable to receive timely medical care – with economic losses estimated between $2.5 billion and $3 billion. Some political actors, including senators of the Libre alliance, have supported the promotion of generals and a possible state of exception, while religious leaders have urged an end to the blockades and a return to dialogue. The situation remains tense, with many routes still blocked and negotiations ongoing.